Time for an open-air, well-deserved break!
The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the whole planet and it seems that it is here to stay, meaning it will keep affecting our everyday lives for many months to come. This does not necessarily mean that life will stop completely. Shops, institutions, industries, cultural activities have started to adjust to the new reality, introducing new and more relevant offerings.
Many festivals and activities have adjusted to the post-COVID era by keeping their previous momentum - yet abiding to the new safety regulations. As Greece is blessed with its weather, it managed to introduce many open air festivals where the visitor can experience the harmony between nature, history and the Mediterranean breeze.
Greece is certainly not the only tourist destination around the world. However, should any of you decide to visit Greece, here ‘s an overview of the refreshed and new cultural offerings you can enjoy:
All of Greece One Culture
The Greek National Opera has presented a series of events which takes place in 70 archaeological sites all over the country from July 18th to September 15th a total of 111 music, opera and dance performances will take place. The Greek National Opera states:
“Under the unprecedented conditions we are all facing, the events will mark the return to the relationship between the artists and the audience, and will be held in compliance with the instructions and guidelines of the competent authorities.”
Arts and culture in combination with nature were always a major part of the Greek identity; it is good to see that even now, as a country, Greece holds dear to those values and practices which travel us in a different ancient world, an ‘escape’ we all need, especially when on vacation. You may have a glimpse of this magic, by listening to Anita Rachvelishvili’s recital in the Roman Agora.
Open Air Film Festival
The Athens Open Air Film Festival is an initiative launched by CINEMA magazine, cinemag.gr and the Athens International Film Festival this summer. It hosts outdoor events next to monumental sites of Athens, which vary from famous tourist destinations to hidden neighbourhoods of the city, with a particular color and life.
The festival runs from June till September and aims to bring life to the different suburbs of Athens.
Some of the films screened already are Jackie Brown (June 25th) and the Rocky Horror Picture Show (June 27th). You can find more information about the festival here.
Molyvos International Music Festival
The Molyvos International Music Festival is directed by two young sisters, German citizens of Greek descent, Danae & Kiveli Döerken. The music festival was founded in 2015 and takes place in the magical castle of Mithymna (Molyvos), in Lesbos Greece.
Despite this year's limitations, it is moving forward with the same momentum, bringing a number of young talented artists from all over the world to play classical music under the Aegean starlight.
More information on the Molyvos International Music Festival can be found here.
Musical Odyssey
Musical Odyssey Masterclasses is a summer school for pianists and singers, offering tuition from leading musicians and sponsored concert engagements. Its founder, Yekaterina Lebedeva established this unique musical masterclass programme 6 years ago in Nafplio, out of her love for this beautiful Greek city, the first capital of the Greek modern state, in order to support young musical talents from all over the world. Renowned music professors such as Ann Murray DBE – Mezzo soprano, Lev Natochenny – Piano and Sergei Leiferkus – baritone have contributed with their teaching in the programme.
Wherever you choose to go this summer, we hope you enjoy your open-air well deserved break. Even if you stay home, some of these cultural events are accessible online. If you are likely to visit Greece, make sure not to miss one of the above cultural initiatives and immerse yourself in this unique, all encompassing experience.